Jean Baudrillard: 'You are born modern, you do not become so.'

You are born modern, you do not become so.

In Jean Baudrillard's thought-provoking quote, "You are born modern, you do not become so," he highlights the notion that modernity is not a state one acquires over time, but rather an inherent characteristic from birth. This quote encourages us to reflect upon what it means to be "modern" and challenges the conventional understanding that modernity is a product of progress and societal change. It suggests that modernity is not an external entity to be attained but rather an intrinsic aspect of our existence. By contemplating this quote, we can open the doors to exploring an unexpected philosophical concept known as the "eternal present."The significance of Baudrillard's statement rests on the idea that modernity is not a linear trajectory that individuals actively pursue; rather, it is an inherent quality that is inextricably bound to our existence from the moment of birth. It dismisses the notion that modernity is simply a consequence of technological advancements, social structures, or cultural shifts. Instead, Baudrillard suggests that being modern is an ontological state, something inborn and integral to our being.To delve deeper into the concept, let us explore the idea of the "eternal present." This philosophical concept proposes that time is not a linear sequence, but rather a perpetual and continuous present moment. In this time-dilation perspective, the past, present, and future coexist simultaneously. Drawing parallels with Baudrillard's quote, the eternal present challenges our conventional understanding of time and reinforces the notion that being modern is not something we attain but rather an inherent aspect of our existence within this eternal present.When we perceive time as an everlasting now, disconnected from notions of progression or chronology, the concept of being born modern gains even more credibility. If the present moment is infinite, then our modernity is not dependent on temporal changes or advancements but instead emerges as an innate quality within us. We are born into a modern state, beyond the confines of historical epochs or societal constructs.Considering the implications of this philosophy, we can begin to question the importance we place on linear notions of progress. If modernity is not synonymous with progress, then perhaps we should focus on cultivating our individuality and embracing the modernity within ourselves rather than striving for conformity with external ideas of advancement. The eternal present challenges us to transcend the constraints of temporal expectations and embrace our inherent modernity as an expression of our authentic being.In a world obsessed with constant change and progress, Baudrillard's quote and the concept of the eternal present offer refreshing insights. They encourage us to reevaluate our understanding of modernity, urging us to turn inward and connect with the modernity that is already within us. The awareness that being modern is an innate quality can empower us to embrace our individuality and manifest our unique expressions of modernity, free from the pressures of societal expectations.In conclusion, Baudrillard's quote, "You are born modern, you do not become so," challenges conventional wisdom by suggesting that we are not shaped by modernity but rather born with its essence. This provocative statement invites us to explore the concept of the eternal present, where time exists as an infinite moment. Within this context, the idea that modernity is an intrinsic aspect of our existence gains credence, bypassing the need for temporal progress or societal constructs. Embracing this perspective, we can liberate ourselves from the pursuit of external notions of modernity, instead focusing on nurturing our authentic selves and expressing our inherent modernity.